FARMERS and rural residents across the county are being urged to take extra precautions against fuel theft as prices continue to rise.

The Wiltshire Rural Crime Team has issued fresh advice today aimed at helping protect fuel tanks, machinery and property from opportunistic thieves.

Officers say simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of being targeted, particularly by making fuel storage areas more visible and secure.

Keeping tanks within sight of homes or main buildings can increase the chances of suspicious activity being spotted, while motion-activated lighting and alarms can act as a strong deterrent.

The team also recommends creating a “noisy approach” using gravel, making it harder for intruders to go unnoticed, and using planting to shield tanks from roadside view to avoid drawing attention.

Installing CCTV to cover vulnerable areas, along with clear signage highlighting security measures, can further discourage would-be thieves.

Practical security upgrades are also advised. These include fitting locking fuel caps and anti-siphon devices, installing cages around standalone tanks, and using fuel tank alarms.

Some alarms are designed to trigger if a cap is tampered with, while others alert owners to sudden drops in fuel levels.

Regular checks are another key measure, with residents encouraged to monitor tank levels and watch for signs of tampering or spilt fuel.

The warning extends beyond storage tanks, with officers highlighting that farm vehicles and machinery are also being targeted.

Owners are urged to lock equipment away at night, keep it out of public view where possible, and fit locking caps to make theft more difficult.

The Rural Crime Team says it will continue to monitor reports closely and is urging the public to remain vigilant.

Anyone who notices suspicious activity is asked to report it via 101 or through the police website, while emergencies should always be reported by calling 999.

The advice comes amid ongoing concerns about rural crime and the increasing value of fuel, which continues to make farms and remote properties attractive targets.